risk reducing mastectomy

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Hi everyone, im new so hopefully im posting in the right place!

 

I wondered if anyone had been through a double mastectomy that could possibly give me some advice? 

 

My mum was diagnosed with breast cancer aged 29 years and sadly lost the fight aged 32 :frowning: of course as a child watching my mum go through this, was awful. I do worry everyday about my risk of getting breast cancer as I am now 29 years wih 2 young children. I have had quite a few consultations at the hospital to consider a risk reducing mastectomy, if anyone could share there experiences I would be so grateful especialy…

recovery time

pain after operation

emotional feelings after op

whether having the op totally puts your mind at rest 

 

thanks xx 

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Hi there

I have just had a double mastectomy, breast cancer in one boob and the other as a risk reduction because of family history. My mum also died far to early at the age of 27 so I understand completely how you feel. Her mum (my nan) also had breast cancer in her 60’s. I was referred by my gp for genectic testing and after waiting 6 months for a reply I was told that although i had a family history i was not considered high risk enough for testing. In the 6 months waiting time I was diagnosed with breast cancer and they are now going to see me for testing. My main concern are my 2 daughters, athough they are very on the case for checking boobs I would feel reassured if they had regular checks. They are 27 and 32 now and it worries me so much.

Sorry I have waffled… I had the double mastectomy and thankfully did not need radiotherapy or chemo so was able to have immediate implants. I can’t say it has been easy, but we are all different and i would not like to influence your decision.  

Hope I have been some help, good luck

take care xxx 

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Hi Animalmad, sorry to hear about your situation.  There is a section called Family History and Genetics under the Have I Got Breast Cancer section.  Some of the ladies posting there might have more relevant information.  You might get a better response if you try posting the same question there.  There is so much on the forum I think people get stuck in their favourite areas and don’t always look around. Good luck. X

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Hi animalmad and welcome to the BCC forums

Along with the support you have here please feel free to call our helpliners to talk this through with one of our team, lines are open weekdays 9-5 and Saturdays 10-2 on 0808 800 6000

Take care
Lucy BCC